According to Joshua Houston, property expert at Household Quotes, property laws which are being broken by many could result in fines between £50 and £30,000.
1. Untidy garden
The expert said: “Untidy gardens can be an eyesore for the surrounding neighbours and can attract unwanted pests like rats and mice.
“This can then negatively affect neighbouring homes, causing damage and spreading bad bacteria.
“Homeowners are required to keep their gardens in good condition by the Local Government Miscellaneous Provisions Act 1976, or they risk up to a £500 fine.”
2. Overflowing or broken bin
It’s important to keep on top of rubbish bins, making sure they aren’t broken or letting them overflow with bin bags or recycling.
The expert said this is more of a common one people break without realising, especially big families due to the large amount of rubbish.
The pro noted: “Like an untidy garden, this is covered by the Local Government Miscellaneous Act 1976, which can lead to a fine of up to £500 depending on where you live.”
3. Cracks in your property
Joshua explained: “Dangerous cracks in your property can be very hazardous, to both you and people in the surrounding area. If the building was to collapse, it could injure or even kill you which is a big reason to attend to any damage.
“The Housing Act 2004 requires you to repair cracks in your property, or you could risk a fine of up to £30,000.
“However, this is only in the most extreme circumstances and does depend on your local council.”
4. Not maintaining drains
The Building Act 1984 states that homeowners must keep their drains clear and well-maintained to avoid blockages, flooding and bad smells.
If left to block and clog, drains will attract pests such as cockroaches, rats and mice, with a fine of usually £5,000.
5. Not clearly displaying house number
The property pro continued: “According to the Street Naming and Numbering Regulation 1999, homeowners are required to make sure that their house is clearly visible. Not doing so can result in a fine of up to £500.”
House numbers on show make it easier for deliveries and public service officials to know what home is which.
It can prevent confusion and it is important for emergency workers in the event they need to locate your property.
Joshua noted: “The law can be surprising, there are things that a lot of people do which could result in a fine.
“I’ve revealed these five laws in the hope they will prevent members of the public from being delivered with a substantial fine. It’s important at this time due to the ongoing effects of the cost of living crisis.”
